"It is commonly assumed that vision is immediate. It seems direct, uncomplicated, and instantaneous—which is why it has arguably become the master sense for the delivery of information in the contemporary technological world. However, just because you have looked at something doesn’t mean that you have seen it. Just because something is available instantly to vision does not mean that it is available instantly to consciousness."
- Jennifer L. Roberts

Emperor Justinian and Attendants, Mosaic on north wall of the apse,
Church of San Vitale, c. 547. 8' 8" by 12'.

The Questions Art Historians Ask

Chronology = When was it made? How old is it?

Provenance = Where was it made? Who paid for it, and when?

Artist = Who made it? Under what conditions was the work conceived?

Style = How does it look? Is that look particular to a time, place or artist?